Travel Essentials for Women: 30+ items I Pack on Every Trip
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30+ TRAVEL ESSENTIALS FOR WOMEN
After traveling to 40 countries and starting my own group travel business taking women around the world with me on our Gals Abroad Getaways group trips, I think it’s safe to say I’m an expert in knowing what you need to bring on a trip.
I’ve been on every type of trip you can imagine, from exploring the various corners of India to island hopping in Greece. On each of those journies, I’ve learned some valuable lessons on what are truly essential items to pack that I hope will be helpful to you.
To make it easy on you, I’ve broken this post into sections like essentials, health, wardrobe, beauty, etc. to make sure that every step of the travel process is covered.
ONE IMPORTANT POINT TO MAKE: I am a maximalist. This is NOT a guide to packing carry-on only. I am typically checking one bag, and carrying on a rolling suitcase & backpack. I am first and foremost concerned with the functionality of each item but I’m also really into aesthetics. So if you like to travel in style with ease, you’ve come to the right list.
If you’re looking for the backpacker’s guide to traveling for two months…I’m sorry I cannot help you with that lol.
Rather this is a comprehensive list of all the women’s travel essentials that have become must-pack items on every trip I take.
THE BASICS
I’ve come to learn that having a successful trip starts with the bones. A great suitcase, fantastic organizational items and things that will make your packing process more streamlined are all essentials in my book.
Passport Case
A passport case is such a fun travel accessory. It’s like a wallet for your most important travel item, so I like to keep my well protected. I love that these passport covers can be customized.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, I adore this one from Ban.do and it’s under $20!
Away Luggage Set
I am a HUGE Away luggage fan and I can confirm they totally live up to the hype. I got the special edition Serena Williams teal set in the carry-on, medium and large and LOVE THEM.
I think the compression system inside makes my luggage feel more organized & the wheels are buttery smooth. And…you HAVE to get the carry-on with the battery pack.
PRO TIP: if you’re planning to use the carry-on on international flights, don’t get the bigger carry-on. It’s bigger than many of the dimensions most international carriers allow.
Stoney Clover Lane Pouches
I am OBSESSED with this colorful, customizable accessories brand! Their pouches, passport cases, luggage tags and backpacks make your lineup of travel accessories so much more fun! This is the company I used to make my Alle Abroad backpack! I especially adore this travel sunglasses case!
Packing Cubes
These are insanely helpful for keeping your suitcase organized. Everyone uses these in different ways but I like to use them for keeping my underwear, bras, socks, staple pieces in one tidy place. I put my PJs & workout gear in one and if I’m going to be swimming I use a cube to pack all my swimsuits.
Hanging Toiletry Case
I love a hanging toiletry bag. Space in the bathroom can be limited so having something that hangs is a total gamechanger. This one has THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews and it comes in a few different colors.
Tumi Voyageur Backpack
I’ve had this backpack for 3 years now and I really can’t say enough good things about it. Tumi truly knows what it’s doing and even though it’s a splurge, you’ll have it for years and it will truly stand the test of time. Plus it comes in a few different colors (which is something they just offered).
Hanging Jewelry Organizer
Are you sensing a tend? I love hanging things and having my jewelry in a place where I can easily see it all in one place gives me a better chance of actually wearing the things I brought with me.
Convertable Tote Bag
This is a big one. If you’re like me and you have A LOT of crap to carry around with you when you’re traveling, a bag like this will be your new best friend. It packs down super small and can hold everything from my laptop, camera, and anything I might need while I’m out and about (plus it comes in A TON of cute colors)
Shoe Dust Bags
Friend, if you are not packing your dirty shoes separately from the other items in your suitcase, it’s time to change up that bad habit.
I won’t get into all the nasty crap that could be on the bottom of your shoes (literally and figuratively) so it’s time to start storing them in a place where you can control the dirt.
These can easily fit 3 pairs of my shoes in each bag and come in a bunch of fun colors and patterns.
Cute Travel Toiletry Bag
It might not be the most practical but it’s big, cute, and fits full-sized products.
A rolling rack
Okay, this is a GAMECHANGER when you’re packing because it helps you visualize what you’re bringing and keep it separate from the other items in your closet. Also this will help you come up with a color palette for your suitcase so you can pack in the same color scheme which makes selecting accessories so much easier.
FOR THE PLANE
What you pack in your carry on is easily one of the most important parts of air travel. These items are what can make your journey less stressful and uncomfortable and as enjoyable as possible. You of course know the basics like tablets, books & things to entertain you, but here’s my essential carry on items.
Compression Socks
I initially didn’t believe the hype but ahead of a 17 hour flight a few years ago, I decided to give them a try and let me tell you, I’ve never looked back since.
Truly though, these socks are so important for long-haul flights. There’s a condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) that causes blood clots from traveling for an extended period of time in cramped conditions (ugh as if economy class wasn’t bad enough lol). So if you want to protect your legs, I strongly suggest traveling with these. They ain’t sexy, but they sure do work!
Deep Contoured Sleep Mask
I never used to think I needed these because I have the delightful ability to fall asleep pretty much anywhere. But I find that I sleep deeper when I’m wearing a mask. Plus, I love having a mask for when I’m wanting to rest but the lights/windows are open on the plane.
Travel Blanket and Pillow
If you’re sitting in economy, but want to elevate your experience, this pillow will do just that. Plus it also doubles as a blanket. And if you’re skeptical like I am about whether or not the blankets and pillows on long-haul flights are actually clean…this is going to be your new best friend.
Luggage Cup Holder
If you’re like me and you always have too many things in your hands at the airport (enter my iced coffee) this cupholder let’s you safely store your liquid fuel as you breeze through the airport and still have one hand free.
Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter
THIS IS A LONG-HAUL FLIGHT GAME CHANGER. If you are a big fan of noise-canceling headphones on flights like me, you obviously are pretty bummed out when you can’t use them to watch your favorite movies on your long-haul flight. This fixes that by connecting to your Bluetooth headphones to the TV on the plane.
Chapstick
There is no worse feeling that forgetting/not being able to find your chapstick when you need it (especially on the plane), am I right? So I buy this fun variety pack and put a chapstick in my purse, my backpack, and put the rest in my toiletry bag for when I inevitably lose one lol.
BEAUTY / HAIR / SKINCARE
Here’s the thing, everyone’s beauty routine is going to be unique to them. I try and keep mine simple and easy when it comes to makeup and skincare while I’m traveling. That said, here are a few of the non-negotiable items that I’ve been using for many years that come with me on every trip.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen
I’m trying REALLY hard to wear sunscreen daily, especially when I travel. Supergoop! makes it super easy because this sunscreen is so light & fluffy it honestly feels like you have nothing on your face when you swipe it on. It’s a GREAT clean beauty product that actually WORKS. Say goodbye to gloopy sunscreen that never seems to sink in. I snag this at my local Sephora and they have TONS of amazing products, even sunscreen for your part!
IGK Mini Beach ClubVolume Texture Spray
If you’re looking to cut down on your travel hair products this will be your new BFF. It’s a salt-free, texture spray that gives your hair hella volume and a solid hold if you’re looking to achieve that “Oh, I just left the beach” look.
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream
This is the holy grail of moisturizers. It’s a concentrated 30 percent hyaluronic acid cream that transforms atmospheric vapor into fresh, pure water, WOW SCIENCE. And it feels super light and goes perfectly under makeup. I slather this stuff all over my face on long haul flights and at night before bed.
Lashify Lashes
These are my secret weapon for having a full set of lashes and not really needing to do much else while I’m traveling. I like to say these fall in-between lash extensions & strip lashes. These are DIY lash extensions that last anywhere from 5-10 days depending on the bond you use.
You get to customize your “lash map” to find your own style & the best part is that you get to wake up with perfect lashes while you’re on the go.
I have a code that takes 10% off your kit. I will say that these take a bit of practice but after the first two or so times, it will be easy breezy!
ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation
I swear by this stuff! It’s the perfect light & minimal base that I use instead of foundation when I’m traveling. If you want just a little bit coverage but not feel like your make up is weighing you down (especially in hot destinations) this is going to be your new favorite thing.
My color is Morgat ST 11.5 - but you can always go to your local Sephora to get matched
Cream Blush
I love this super natural cream blush for travel. It gives you this perfect rosy glow without being too aggressive. Also, I love that it’s easy to toss in your bag.
Mini Brush
I love traveling with one of these because after a long flight or a day out and about, it’s nice to just run this through my hair to freshen up.
Travel Razor
I LOVE a mini razor and I love that this comes in a perfect little travel case.
Uviña Skin
Uviña Skin is a mother and nurse-owned brand that makes it REALLY easy for you to have healthy, glowing skin! They have this super easy 3-step skincare routine helps cleanse, calm, brighten, and hydrate your skin using ingredients inspired by tradition and culture.
All products are easy to pack in a carry-on (hello, face cleansing bar!), TSA-friendly and are simple to use and made with non-toxic, naturally-derived ingredients.
Use Code: GALSABROAD for 20% off your order (minimum $20 purchase)
Tarte Cheek Palette
This is a great space saver and has bronzer, blush, and highlighter. I LOVEEEE Tarte products and also use their fake awake eyeliner to fight jet lag lol.
USE CODE ALLEPIERCE FOR 15% OFF
Megababe’s Deodorant
I recently have switched to natural deodorant and Megababe has my new routine on LOCK. I start with their space soap bar (use it in the shower every day), then I detox with this mask 1-2 times a week & end with their deodorant. Truly a game changer and I love that it comes in a small travel size which is easy to slip in my purse.
HEALTH
Health and travel go hand in hand. We’ve all unfortunately had that one incident where we’ve gotten sick on a trip that haunts us all. So no matter if you’re combatting traveler’s tummy or just trying to stay healthy before a big trip, here are some of my essential go to health items to make sure you’ve always go on hand.
Acidil
GUYS, this is not a drill. If there were such a thing as a magic pill, Acidil would be it. It’s saved me time and time again from upset stomachs abroad and at home.
Basically, Acidil relieves heartburn, acid indigestion, bloating or upset stomach. It’s honestly a miracle. My mom and I discovered this product when I was in middle school because I used to get stomach aches ALL THE TIME. So this is something I’ve been using for almost 14 years.
We never travel without it. You can thank me later.
Throat Spray
Travel can be incredibly hard on the body and this is my secret weapon to staying healthy while I’m constantly on the move.
This throat spray gives you immune support in the most natural form: Bee Propolis. This is nature's ultimate protector and the bee hive's immune system. It’s been used for centuries for immune support, sore throats and combating various ailments.
LIQUID I.V.
I first discovered this product in a Coachella Swag bag LOL. I mean, if you want to talk about dehydration, all you need to say is Coachella.
These are little electrolyte powder mixes that you can add to your water for rapid hydration. I pop a few of these into my travel med case and I know I’m good to go just in case.
TECH
These items will be your new BFFs on your next trip. From the converter I’ve brought around the world with me to the ultimate hack in ensuring you know exactly where your luggage is at all times - these are my travel tech essentials.
Voltage Converter & International Travel Adapter/Power Strip
Listen…those little adaptor cube things are BS. You can plug 1 or maybe two things in there and they’re clunky and most of the time fall out of the outlet. THIS bad boy is all you will ever need for your international converter/adaptor needs. I use this to charge my computer, phone, camera & most importantly plug my hair curler into it with no worries of frying it. It comes with adaptors that work for various countries & I swear it’s the best $40 you will ever spend.
Bandolier Phone Case
Bandolier cases have changed the way I travel and honestly made my life so much easier. I know it seems weird to carry your phone cross body like a purse but it’s INCREDIBLY convenient, especially when traveling. Whether you’re juggling a bunch of bags at the airport or trying to balance taking photos on your camera & iphone, having your phone handy around your shoulders is such a game changer.
Noise Canceling Headphones
No matter if you’re on a short flight or a long-haul flight the most essential item you can have is a pair of noise-canceling headphones (especially if you have a screaming kid near you…).
I was a long-time airpods pro gal (which are totally great) but these really changed the game and the battery lasts forever.
Portable Tripod
If you’re solo traveling or can’t trust your travel companion to take the perfect shot - a portable tripod will be your best content creation hack. Plus this one comes with a Bluetooth remote which means you don’t need to be running back and forth with a self-timer looking like a crazy person. You can capture your content in peace and keep it moving haha.
Power Bank Portable Charger
If you’re not already traveling with one of these you’re doing it wrong. There is nothing that drains your battery faster than traveling haha.
Apple Airtags
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
3 in 1 Wireless Charger
I’ve got all the Apple things (iPhone, Apple watch and Airpods) this charges them all - we LOVE efficiency when we travel.
WARDROBE
When it comes to what to wear on a trip, there’s SO much that goes into figuring out what you need for that specific trip. So rather than trying to cover it all, I thought I’d share a few staple clothing items that I pretty much pack on every trip.
Rent the Runway
This is my secret travel wardrobe weapon. Instead of spending tons of $$$ buying a whole new vacation wardrobe, Rent the Runway allows you to rent fun new items from thousands of designers without breaking the bank. I’ve been using it since 2016 and I truly cannot imagine traveling without it.
Use code RTRALLEP for 40% off of two months!
Sam Edelman White Sneaker
These are the most amazing white sneakers I have ever found. First and foremost they are so comfortable and can be worn for HOURS. But as a great bonus they are light as a feather too!
Sling or Fanny Pack
Fanny packs are fantastic for traveling (especially on a plane) this is where you can keep all your must-have essentials that you need to access easily while on the plane.
A Hat (or a few)
I LOVEEEEEEE hats. And I especially love them when I’m traveling and don’t feel like doing my hair lol. They automatically elevate any outfit. My go-to for summer hats are either Brixton or BTB Lost Angeles. And when It comes to hats that are great for any season then Lack of Color is where you need to shop.
A Comfy Airport Outfit
There is no outfit more important than the one you wear on the airplane. I like to strike the right balance between comfort and class and I find that Free People has some of the best lounge sets for travel days.
You’ll always want to have some sort of a wrap or scarf to keep you warm & I like to make sure to wear shoes that slide on easily.
Also if your bags are WAY over stuffed, I often wear my most bulky coats on the airplane.
Waterproof Sandals
I swear by these! I wear them EVERYWHERE and can walk around for hours in them.
They come in a million colors and really aren’t too expensive.
Even if you’re going to a winter destination these are still nice to have for walking around in the hotel room, going to the spa, etc.
Sunglasses
I always like to travel with a few pairs of inexpensive sunglasses so that if for whatever reason you lose them or they get damaged it’s not a huge bummer.
But if you’re lookin for a splurge-worthy pair, these are my absolute favorite sunglasses.
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